Expat businessman loses Rs 1.10 cr in cyber fraud

THRISSUR: A non-resident businessman from Anthikkad was duped of Rs 1.10 crore after cyber thugs posed as investigation agency officials. It started with a fake call from the Telecom Regulatory Authority on April 18. His money was taken several times till May 7.

At first, the said businessman was told that he had seen a pornographic picture on his mobile and that his connection would be disconnected. When he said that he was innocent, he was told that his records will be checked and that the CBI would be taking over. Later, another person called, pretending to be from the Mumbai CBI office, and asked for a copy of the Aadhaar. The person was told he would be arrested for money laundering. He was made to install Skype software on the mobile phone and asked to show his house and surroundings through video calls. He was also instructed not to tell anyone. Another person called and learned about his assets. Sounds of wireless devices were made to make it sound like the police.

Fake warrant

The business was then told about a Supreme Court warrant and to avoid arrest, he was asked to pay Rs 10,37,000 immediately, which was promised to be returned once the process is completed. A fake warrant was sent. Believing this, he sent the money. He was also asked about share market transactions. The next day a man called pretending to be a CBI official. He informed that the share market transactions are suspicious and should be immediately cashed and sent for verification. They remitted the money in installments to their given accounts. The man lost 1,10,80,389 including the initial amount. Later, when he did not receive any follow-up, he complained on the cybercrime portal and Anthikkad police registered a case.

Don't send money, complain instead

Do not respond to suspicious telephone calls or threats. Helpline No:1930. To register complaints, visit cybercrime.gov.in/

Website with phone numbers of police stations: //keralapolice.gov.in/page/contacts.